I'm so sorry I didn't respond to the comments this year! Thank you so much, BlueEyedMonster, francis, and MickLifeCrisis.

I wanted to bump this story, because my dad was laid to rest with full military honors on Monday. There was a 21-gun salute, followed by "Taps" played by a bugler and drummer. "Taps" will always be dear to my heart, because my dad used to whistle it to us kids every night, after turning out the light at bedtime. And the flag ceremony and presentation to my brother were amazingly moving as well. We all sang "The Navy Hymn" together, and my brother said a few words about my parents. (My mom's ashes were interred with my dad's, which is a service the US Military provides free of charge to the spouses of veterans.)

The Naval and Marine officers and sailors who performed that ceremony were all volunteers. In fact, everyone who does the military honors burials does it on their own time, out of respect for their fellow servicemen and women.

I'm very proud of my dad for his service to this country--and of my mom too--and so grateful to the people who gave them such a dignified and honorable send-off.

This is my dad's flag, and some of the shell casings from the 21-gun salute.

Thanks to MickLifeCrisis for the idea... I'm bumping this story as a tribute to all who have served, and especially all who gave their lives in defense of our country. May their sacrifice never be forgotten.